The Best of Sand City California

The best of Sand City California – Sand City California is blessed with an abundance of, well, sand, including the highest dunes found along the state’s Central Coast.  But this isn’t your garden-variety beach sand. We’re referring to spectacular dunes formed during the Pleistocene era at the tail end of the last ice age somewhere in the neighborhood of 6,000 to 15,000 years ago. Sand City Beach is also known for its strong winds, making even the summer months a tad chilly at times. With about a mile and a half of ocean, Sand City is virtually surrounded by much larger cities, like Seaside.

Look above the dunes, and you’ll see a sky full of para gliders. The same steady winds that lure hang gliders to Marina State Beach draw para gliders to its sister beach a little south. Sand City is one of the prime spots in the state for paragliding. The winds are perfect, the launch area ideal — and the view is incredible. The Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail runs right through the sand dunes, north to Castroville and south all the way to Pebble Beach.  For a list of all the area beaches << Click Here >>.

Sand City Weather (When to Visit)

The best time to visit Sand City is between April and May. Spring offers warmer temperatures, fewer crowds and food festivals dishing out delectable eats, including Pebble Beach Food & Wine and the Artichoke Festival in Castroville. Summer is the most popular time to visit the Sand City. Located right on the ocean, the region experiences bitter winds, so bring a sweater regardless of the season. Fall is another good time to visit, but the likelihood of rain increases starting in October. Sand City’s central California location subjects it to mild temperatures during the winter, with the average low reaching 48 degrees. Winter also brings lower hotel prices and the celebrity-heavy AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am event held in February, making Sand City an attractive destination year-round.

Best Sand City Area Beaches

Sand City Beach

The small city of Sand City, California is completely wrapped around by the city of Seaside. The paved Monterey Bay Coastal Trail runs through the dunes providing access to trails that lead to Sand City Beach. The trails in the preserve are open to hiking, biking, and leashed pets, but don’t trample the vegetation next to the trails.

Crater Beach

“The Crater” and its adjacent beach are best-known as a clothing-optional area, but should be known for the sandy playground that they comprise. The Crater is a huge depression in the dunes that has sand rising up around it on all sides. Some slopes are gentle while others are downright steep. Kids and adults can find a comfortable grade to climb and jump off of or slide down. The beach here is wide, sandy and feels remote.

Fort Ord Dunes State Park

Fort Ord Dunes State Park has a 1,500 foot trail to 4 miles of ocean beach with beautiful views of Monterey Bay.  From the parking area visitors may also take a stroll on the new boardwalk to a bluff top viewing platform.  Existing park roads are open to bicyclists, hikers and dogs on leash.

Monterey State Beach

This beach is a favorite place for surfers and tidepool watchers. Fishing is popular, too.  Visitors also enjoy kayaking, kite-flying and volleyball. The flat beach is an excellent place for beachcombing.

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Del Monte Beach

Del Monte Beach is a hidden gem known to Monterey Bay locals.  There is a boardwalk trail through the dunes with benches and picnic tables to rest on.  Del Monte is between two sections of Monterey State Beach, Window on the Bay Beach, walking distance to the south, and Houghton M. Roberts Beach.

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Best Sand City Restaurants

Wild Fish  $31 – 60

Wild Fish offers only the finest organic provisions, purchased directly from local purveyors with exclusive plates crafted by our premier chef. From the headland where we sit, there’s a view of waves combing the crags of Little River Cove, with a stunning sunset beyond. Where delectable fresh dishes meet a wistful atmosphere, Wild Fish makes every meal a spectacular dining experience.  Telephone:  831-373-8523  Web:  Wild Fish.

Chart House  $31 – 60

Chart House is a fine dining restaurant serving seafood & steak and famous for their spectacular views.  Chart House restaurants specialize in dazzling views, unique cuisine and exceptional service.  From fresh fish specialties to slow-roasted prime rib, the renowned chefs of Chart House have tailored a menu that adds a unique touch to local flavors.  And the Chart House happy hour is a guest favorite, where guest favor our signature cocktails and delicious bites you are sure to enjoy.  Telephone:  831-372-3362  Web: Chart House.

Montrio Bistro  $31 – 60

Montrio is an upscale “Bistro” offering a diverse menu rich in local ingredients. Wood fired grill and brick oven are used in many of the dishes.  Montrio features: Prime Steaks, Natural Pork, Seasonally  Local Seafood, Free Range Chicken and the Best in Local Produce.  Telephone:  831-648-8880  Web:   Montrio Bistro.

Passionfish  $31 – 60

Passionfish offers serious food in a fun and causal atmosphere. The combination of Chef Ted Walter’s uniquely flavorful culinary creations and an award winning wine list have earned Passionfish a place among California’s finest restaurants.  Passionfish’s ever-changing menu makes each visit a new adventure. Although the name Passionfish naturally conjures up visions of fresh seafood, the menu also offers many tantalizing alternatives, including steaks, fowl, and vegetarian dishes. And the wine flows freely at Passionfish, from a list as diverse as any in the world.  Telephone:  831-655-3311  Web:   Passionfish.

Jeninni Kitchen & Wine Bar  $11 – 30

A coastal and southern Mediterranean cuisine. Their menu consists of many small plates and changes almost daily with focus on local and organic ingredients. Their diverse wine list designed by the owner Sommelier offers high quality wines from our local Monterey County appellation and from around the world.  Telephone:  831-920-2662  Web:  Jeninni Kitchen & Wine Bar.

Best Sand City Bars

Post No Bills Craft Beer House

They offer  a wide range of Craft Beer, and Ciders from all over the world. With 17 rotating taps, and over 300 bottles for consumption on or off premise.  Telephone:  831-324-4667  Web:   Post No Bills Craft Beer House.

Cuz’s Sportsman’s Club

A locals bar with three dart boards, pool table, and live music on Thursdays.  Wednesday night hosts Monterey Bay Dart League matches. Tuesdays there pool and/or dart tournaments.  Telephone:  831-394-2666  Web:   Cuz’s Sportsman’s Club.

Carbone’s

Carbones is a great bar, reminiscent of cheers. Sal the owner is friendly and kind and if you are new and or by yourself he will make you feel welcome and introduce you to other friendly customers/regulars. There is a nice fire pit outside. Dart boards inside and outside, pool table and Foosball table. Wednesday nights they have a luck of the draw darts tournament and good fun people participate.    Telephone:  831-643-9169  Web:   Carbone’s.

Best Sand City Area Hotels